Beverly gears up for ninth annual Gran Prix

If you’re looking to take in a world-class event that’s distinctively Beverly, look no further than the Gran Prix of Beverly.

The ninth annual Goldberg Properties Gran Prix of Beverly, presented by Kelly Automotive Group, is set for Wednesday, July 26.

The recent road construction and expansion of the sidewalk the corner of Cabot and Winter Street has given this year’s race a whole new look, which should only enhance the experience for riders and spectators alike.

Last weekend, Gran Prix Executive Race Director Paul Boudreau had the opportunity to test out the course at 5 a.m., which included a new detour down Winter Street.

“We hit the empty streets to take some on-bike video without cars, really focusing on the new corners,” Boudreau said. “The turn onto Dane Street is going to be super fast. The new pavement is smooth like glass. It’s going to be very cool to race on.”

The Beverly Common will be the site of the annual kids races. Registration will be held from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with the races slated for 5:10 p.m.

The Kids Parade will follow on the adult course with kids riding along side pro riders at 5:45 p.m.

The Gran Prix will start and finish on Cabot Street, with four races. The Amateur Men (Cat 4) open the festivities at 4:15 p.m. The Masters Men 40+ (Cat 123) take center stage at 5:05 p.m. The Elite Women (Cat P123) return for action at 5:55 p.m., culminating with the Men’s (Cat 123) State Championship Race at 6:55 p.m.

The Beverly Citizen recently caught up with Boudreau to get his take on the course, competitors, and what else is in story at this year’s event.

Beverly Citizen: How are things shaping up as we approach race day?

Paul Boudreau: Things are great. I just had my final meetings with City Hall, Police and Fire and I think we have everything lined up and ready to go.

BC: Who are some of the cyclists that are expected to attend this year?

PB: In the Men’s race, my good friend, former pro, Adam Myerson (Boston) is enjoying retirement and fatherhood by training and is in great shape. I would not be surprised if he’s able to hold off the kids for the win. I saw AJ Moran (Jamaica Plain) at a training race in Newton this past weekend and he just killed everyone. I don’t think he’s raced since national championships in June, so he’s probably well rested. Chris Goguen (Franklin) comes from a big bike racing family and has had some great results early on this season.

BC: How does the women’s field look?

PB: In the women’s race, it’s going to be more difficult to predict. Crystal Anthony (Beverly) is racing and did well at the Killington Stage Race a couple of months ago. I would love Lauren Leclair (Somerville) or Erin Faccone (Medford) to sneak in a win because they are such great advocates for women’s racing and cycling in general. And they're fast! At the moment, Regina Legge (Salem, N.H.) has been super starting this year. She has about six wins, and is on fire. If I were a betting man …

BC: Who should we look for in the Master’s field?

PB: In the Masters race, David Hildebrand (Ellington, Conn.) is on fire. He’s been on the podium in his last five races and placed fourth at Road National Championships for his age group in June. Alex Grabau (Framingham) is a favorite to do well and has had a good season so far. My traditional favorite is Mark McCormack (Foxborough). Mark is a former pro who won multiple National Championships. He still stays in shape and is a great ambassador for the sport.

BC: Any local favorites to keep an eye on?

PB: As of this interview, my co-organizer, Chris McKernan and I are the only male Beverly residents signed up to race. If Chris beats me, the post-event beer is on me.

BC: Any other notables to look for?

PB: For the Amateur Men’s race, our event volunteer coordinator and former Beverly resident, Patrick Cochran (Arlington) is racing. He’s hired a coach and has training. He’ll be in trouble if he doesn’t beat Kurt Maw (Salem) who is the Race Director for the Witches Cup.

BC: How special is it knowing the community sponsorship that came out in full force to support this year's race?

PB: Very special. The Goldberg family has been so kind and gracious. They have such deep roots in Beverly and really just want to give back. They love that Beverly has cultural events that bring the community together and they saw our event as something that they could support. Kelly Automotive Group has also been a pleasure to work with. They really rallied around us when we needed it and for that, we are grateful.

BC: Any final thoughts?

PB: We are putting on a family and community event that just happens to be a state championship bike race. We have free kids races on the Common and a kids parade on part of the adult race course. Atomic Cafe will be serving adult beverages in front of their storefront, right on the racecourse. Ipswich Brewing will have soda on the Common for the kids race participants. There really is something for everyone.

For more information about the race, visit www.granprixbeverly.squarespace.com.